STORY
At a high-level meeting of the OSCE in Vienna, the United Kingdom delivered a blunt warning to Moscow that President Vladimir Putin’s insistence on continuing the war in Ukraine is inflicting untold suffering on civilians and inflicting severe economic damage on Russia itself. Speaking on behalf of the UK delegation, Lt Col Joby Rimmer stressed that Britain’s priority is an immediate, lasting ceasefire to pave the way for genuine negotiations and an end to the humanitarian crisis. Rimmer highlighted a recent wave of Russian attacks – a weekend assault involving 69 missiles and nearly 300 drones striking more than 30 Ukrainian towns and cities – which claimed at least a dozen civilian lives, including children, and wrecked homes and public celebrations alike. “These actions are not those of a government seeking peace” he declared “but of one determined to prolong suffering and instability.”
Behind the battlefield carnage, the Kremlin is also exacting a punishing toll on its own people. With interest rates soaring to 21 percent, defence spending swallowing 40 percent of the federal budget and social services reduced for the first time since the Soviet collapse, Russia is depleting its precious National Wealth Fund and losing hundreds of billions in energy revenues. Lt Col Rimmer warned that these figures lay bare a leadership that prioritises war over the welfare of its citizens.
Despite these pressures, Moscow has rebuffed every call for a ceasefire. In response, the UK confirmed it stands ready to tighten sanctions further if Russia refuses to halt hostilities. At the same time, Britain reiterated its full spectrum support for Ukraine – from defensive weaponry and training on the frontline to a record aid package for reconstruction. Officials estimate Ukraine will need over half a trillion dollars in the coming decade to rebuild schools, hospitals, roads and homes destroyed by Russian forces.
In closing, the UK statement affirmed that Russia’s invasion remains a gross violation of international law and the principles that underpin European security. “We will continue to stand with Ukraine – militarily, economically and diplomatically – until peace is achieved, and Ukraine’s sovereignty is safeguarded” Rimmer concluded, underscoring London’s commitment to a free and democratic future for Ukraine.